SEMO Alumnus Establishes STEM Scholarship Honoring Former Professor

The scholarship will support high school graduates pursuing majors in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) while helping SEMO recruit and prepare future innovators, researchers and technology leaders.

Yadav, a 2016 graduate of SEMO, said Dr. Dahiya's mentorship shaped both his academic foundation and professional outlook.

"Dr. Dahiya challenged his students to think critically and believe in their potential," Yadav said. "Education and mentorship can change the trajectory of a student's life. His guidance had a profound impact on my journey, and this scholarship is a way to honor his legacy while investing in students who will help shape the future."

Yadav said he believes early encouragement and access to education can create opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom and into communities, industries and emerging technologies.

Dr. Dahiya retired from Southeast Missouri State University in 2014 after 31 years of service. In addition to teaching, he served as associate dean of the College of Science and Mathematics for 15 years.

During his career at SEMO, Dahiya received numerous honors recognizing his teaching, research and service. In 2001, he received both the Southeast Missouri State University Faculty Merit Award and the Governor's Award for Excellence in Teaching. He also earned the Provost Faculty Excellence Award from the College of Science and Mathematics in 2000, 2003 and 2009 and was a four-time recipient of the college's research award.

In 2002, Dahiya received the Outstanding Alumnus Award from the University of North Texas. He was later honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2011 by the Economic Growth Society of India through the Finance Ministry of India.

Yadav currently serves as vice president of engineering at LG Ads and lives in New York City. He earned a Bachelor of Science in computer science with minors in mathematics and physics from SEMO through the Jane Stephens Honors Program. While at SEMO, he was active in Student Government and a member of Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity.

He also earned a Master of Science in data science from the University of Chicago and is currently pursuing an MBA at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

By supporting future STEM students through scholarships and mentorship, SEMO continues investing in the next generation of problem-solvers and industry leaders. To learn more about opportunities in SEMO's STEM programs, visit semo.edu/stem.

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